‘Absolute tragedy’ of Lewes factory worker found dead at home

Neil Coomber died at his home in South Chailey on October 25 last year, an inquest heard.

The inquest at Eastbourne Town Hall on Thursday (June 10), heard Mr Coomber, a factory worker, had a background of anxiety and depression for which he was taking medication, according to his GP Dr Jennifer Andrews.

Dr Andrews said he had gender identity disorder which had caused the breakdown of his relationship with Tracy Archer, although they were still living together.

Miss Archer told the inquest she had gone out the night of October 24 to stay with her daughter and when she returned to the house the next morning she found Mr Coomber had taken his own life.

Toxicology reports found Mr Coomber had high levels of alcohol in his system.

East Sussex coroner Alan Craze ruled Mr Coomber took his own life. He called it an ‘absolute tragedy’.

• If you have been affected by any of the issues raised in this article, the Samaritans may be able to help – the charity’s helpline number is 116 123.